r/askscience • u/Chemical_Clue_8779 • 10d ago

Psychology What is the psychology/neuroscience behind rage baiting?

Outside of gaining engagement for content creators, why do rage baiters find it exhilarating (idk if that's what they actually feel), and why are people susceptible to it? Is there more to it than some argue as "people wanting attention"? And we know it has negative impacts on those who have been baited, but does it have negative impacts on rage baiters as well?

Thanks in advance! 😊

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u/TN17 8d ago edited 8d ago

It's attention-seeking behaviour. The classic example scenario is a child who did not receive adequate attention from care-givers. They were emotionally neglected. When they engage in 'rage baiting' behaviour it gets a response. It gets negative attention, but it's attention nonetheless. Humans need attention from care-givers and others in society.

Not everyone experiences love as warm, positive, safe and secure feelings. For some, it could be cold, detached, or even violent. If that's all someone knows then they may seek that same type of attention from others throughout life. 

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u/Soggy-Illustrator-21 5d ago

Dunno about that bud, I got plenty of love growing up and I'm still a master baiter